STR Cribs is the only provider of design, furnishing and renovation for Airbnb and short-term rentals in all 50 states.
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Professional Airbnb design and renovation services in Lake Bluff maximize your rental income by creating spaces that command premium rates and attract more bookings. Expert designers understand what guests expect in this upscale North Shore market, incorporating luxury finishes and functional layouts that generate positive reviews. Professional renovations ensure code compliance and safety standards while optimizing space for maximum occupancy. The investment typically pays for itself through higher nightly rates and increased booking frequency.
Airbnb renovations in Lake Bluff typically cost $15,000-40,000 for mid-range updates including fresh paint, modern furnishings, and kitchen/bathroom improvements. Properties can see 20-35% higher nightly rates after renovations, with well-designed spaces commanding $150-300 per night versus $120-200 for basic rentals. The investment usually pays back within 12-18 months through increased bookings and premium pricing. Focus on neutral décor, quality bedding, and updated amenities yields the highest ROI in this affluent North Shore market.
For Lake Bluff Airbnbs, focus on coastal-inspired designs with neutral colors like whites, blues, and sandy beiges that reflect the lakefront location. Incorporate durable, easy-to-clean furniture and materials since it's a rental property, while adding local touches like nautical decor or Chicago-area artwork. Maximize natural light with sheer curtains and mirrors to showcase lake views, and provide comfortable seating areas for relaxation. Keep the design simple, functional, and Instagram-worthy to appeal to vacationers seeking a memorable lakeside experience.
For Lake Bluff's lakefront location and seasonal climate, focus on creating weatherproof outdoor entertaining spaces with fire pits or outdoor fireplaces for year-round use. Install covered patios or pergolas with outdoor kitchens featuring grills and seating areas that capitalize on lake views. Add hot tubs or outdoor showers for summer appeal, and ensure proper lighting and heating elements extend usability into cooler months. Incorporate native landscaping and privacy screening to create intimate outdoor rooms that feel secluded despite the area's density.
STRCribs is a specialized short-term rental design and renovation company that serves the Lake Bluff, Illinois area, focusing specifically on Airbnb property transformations. They offer comprehensive services including interior design, furniture sourcing, and property staging tailored to maximize rental income and guest satisfaction. The company specializes in creating Instagram-worthy spaces that appeal to modern travelers while maintaining functionality for short-term stays. STRCribs handles everything from concept to completion, making them a one-stop solution for Airbnb hosts in the Lake Bluff market.
You’re not asking for a lot. You just want the best property, without pulling your hair out.
Delightful and simple
We’ve reimagined the design and renovation process from the ground up, leveraging industry leading data to ensure you have what you need to dominate in your market.
Results that speak for themselves
40% higher ADRs, 64% more occupancy and on average, $50,000+ more per year by working with our data driven design and renovation teams. Not to mention, not a single stressful moment.

200+ Projects
Planned, designed and created by our team for clients coast to coast
8,000+ Five Star Reviews
from Guests across our clients properties we’ve renovated and designed
25+ Years of Experience
“Do you know how to do ____?” Yes, we do.
Used by the Best
Funds, PropTech, Property Management companies and every day investors trust us day in and day out to pull off magic
Our clients see up to 64% more occupancy, 40% higher ADRs and drive $50,000+ more per year than their competitors.

Develop Plan
Every situation is unique – we take the time to understand your property, goals, budget and the competitive market.

Elite Design & Renovation
Generic listings blend in, often competing on price. We craft experiences that tell a story, in harmony with the home and its environment.

Seamless Installation
Our team manages purchasing, delivery and installation — handling any and all obstacles that present themselves along the way.
Short-term Rental Design
Schedule a call and see how STR Cribs can elevate the desgin of your short-term rental today!
FAQ
Lake Bluff Airbnb properties favor coastal-inspired designs with nautical elements, light color palettes, and natural textures that reflect the area's proximity to Lake Michigan. Popular trends include shiplap walls, weathered wood furniture, and blue and white color schemes that evoke a beachhouse aesthetic. Modern farmhouse elements like barn doors and vintage fixtures are also common, along with cozy outdoor spaces featuring fire pits and lake-view seating areas.
Lake Bluff's building codes require Airbnb renovations to comply with residential zoning requirements, fire safety standards, and occupancy limits that may restrict guest capacity. Properties must meet egress requirements with proper window sizes and emergency exits, while electrical and plumbing upgrades often need permits and inspections. The village requires short-term rental licenses and may mandate specific safety features like smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in each sleeping area. Historic district properties face additional design restrictions that limit exterior modifications and require architectural review board approval.
When designing your Lake Bluff Airbnb, prioritize a coastal-inspired aesthetic that reflects the lakefront location with blues, whites, and natural textures. Focus on durable, easy-to-clean materials and furnishings that can withstand high guest turnover while maintaining style. Include local touches like Chicago-area artwork or nautical elements to create a memorable experience. Ensure the space feels bright and airy with good lighting and comfortable seating areas that maximize the property's proximity to Lake Michigan.
Incorporate Lake Bluff's coastal charm by using a nautical color palette of navy blues, crisp whites, and sandy beiges throughout your space. Add natural textures like weathered wood furniture, rope accents, and linen fabrics to evoke the lakeside atmosphere. Display local artwork featuring Lake Michigan scenes or vintage sailing motifs, and include cozy elements like plaid throws and rustic lighting that reflect the town's historic New England-inspired architecture. Create outdoor spaces with Adirondack chairs and string lights to capture the relaxed lakefront lifestyle.
A full Airbnb design and renovation project in Lake Bluff, Illinois typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. The timeline includes 2-4 weeks for design planning and permits, 6-12 weeks for construction and renovation work, and 1-2 weeks for final staging and furnishing. Factors like project scope, permit approval times, and contractor availability can extend the timeline. Smaller refresh projects may complete in 6-8 weeks, while extensive renovations could take up to 8 months.
